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Cozy Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe in 5 Easy Crispy Bread Bowls

broccoli cheddar soup in bread bowls - featured image

A comforting and creamy broccoli cheddar soup served in crispy homemade bread bowls, perfect for cozy nights and easy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (2% or almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium recommended)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard powder (optional)
  • 4 small to medium round bread loaves (sourdough or crusty boule, about 45 inches in diameter)
  • Olive oil or melted butter, for brushing bread bowls

Instructions

  1. Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized florets (about 4 cups). Set aside.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the top off each bread loaf and hollow out the inside, leaving about a 1-inch thick shell.
  3. Brush inside and edges of bread bowls with olive oil or melted butter. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and slightly firm. Set aside to cool.
  4. In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat.
  5. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  6. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
  7. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes without browning.
  8. Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth, then 2 cups whole milk. Stir to prevent lumps.
  9. Increase heat to medium-high and simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  10. Stir in broccoli florets, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until broccoli is tender but still bright green.
  11. Optional: Use an immersion blender to pulse some soup for a smoother but chunky texture.
  12. Lower heat to medium-low and gradually stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
  13. Add 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir gently until cheese melts and soup is creamy.
  14. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add broth or milk if soup is too thick.
  15. Ladle warm soup into crispy bread bowls and serve immediately.

Notes

Brush bread bowls with olive oil or melted butter before baking to prevent sogginess. Stir the roux continuously to avoid floury taste. Freshly shred cheddar cheese for best melting and texture. Use an immersion blender for a smoother soup or leave chunky as preferred. Save hollowed bread for croutons. Store soup separately from bread bowls to keep bread crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, creamy soup, bread bowls, comfort food, easy dinner, homemade soup, cheesy soup, autumn recipe